Barking and Dagenham Council is gearing up to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort on 6 May. And after the success of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee event last year, we know residents will want to get in on the action.

The Coronation Weekend, which runs from 6-8 May, offers a host of opportunities for people to come together and mark this significant event. The council is organising its own free entry event as part of the Summer of Festivals Weekender on 6-7 May where residents can come together at Valence Park for royal festivities and the usual family friendly entertainment. But if anyone wants to celebrate in their own local area they can host a street party or a community celebration and the council is cutting its usual red tape to make the process easier.

Hosting a street party or community celebration is a great way to get to know your neighbours, generate community spirit and have a fun day on your doorstep. While it requires some planning, the council is here to help ensure the event is safe and accessible. If you want to host a party or celebration you just need to complete an application form and notify the council by 27 March.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell said: "We are delighted to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort in Barking and Dagenham.

"Last year, thousands of residents joined us to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, so we know lots of residents respect the royal family and will want to play their part in this historical moment. Whether you join us at our event in Valence Park, want to organise something yourself or both, we hope residents will get involved. It should be another day where together; we do the borough proud.”

For more information on how to host a community celebration or street party, please visit: www.lbbd.gov.uk/coronation